The Michigan State Police are seeking volunteers who are willing to be “arrested” or act out other scenarios with trooper recruits as part of their training before becoming part of the statewide force.
“We have had great success with our Civilian Actor Program in previous trooper recruit schools,” MSP Director Col. James Grady said in a recent press release.
Members of the public can apply through Jan. 15 to be part of the program.
“Involving members of the public in recruit training allows the recruits, in a controlled setting, to experience more realistic interactions with the public they will serve. It is a meaningful learning experience for everyone involved,” Grady said.
Here is what to know before applying:
What type of scenarios will volunteers take part in?
Volunteers are needed for these scenarios:
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Traffic stops and/or arrests
How do I apply to be a volunteer for MSP?
Applications can be completed through Jan 15. The online application includes 17 questions.
If selected, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions and a recruit training exercise registration.
If previously accepted into the program, you do not need to reapply.
What are the requirements to become a volunteer?
Those who meet the following criteria may apply:
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have a valid driver’s license
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agree to a criminal background check
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If approved, attend a preliminary class consisted of legal instruction, responsibilities, safety, and scenario practice.
Where and when will scenarios happen?
There are two locations where training sessions will take place:
What kind of training do MSP trooper candidates undergo?
The MSP conducts one to two recruit training schools each year. Michigan State Police troopers complete a residential training academy in Lansing, during which they receive nearly 1,200 hours of hands-on, lecture, and scenario-based instruction in:
How many Michigan State Police troopers are there?
Including the 52 graduates of the 147th Trooper Recruit School in November 2024, there are approximately 1,170 troopers assigned statewide, and a total of 1,860 enlisted members in the MSP.
What was crime like in Michigan overall in 2024?
The MSP’s Crime In Michigan Dashboard highlights 2024 Michigan crimes and rates:
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In 2024, there were 134,477 reports of violent crimes (murder, rape, robbery and aggravated assault).
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In 2024, there were 101,846 reports of non-violent crimes (burglary, larceny and motor vehicle theft).
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There were 53,210 victims of domestic violence in January to September 2024, the latest figures.
Contact Sarah Moore at smoore@lsj.com
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Michigan State Police seek volunteers to help train recruits